On May 1st, she’ll arrive in Disney World’s Hollywood Studios where guests will be able to find her in Animation Courtyard at an all-new character greeting location. She will also join Vampirina, Doc McStuffins and Roadster Racer Goofy for Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine Breakfast at Hollywood and Vine in the park as well. [Read more…]

Holiday Greetings from Hollywood Studios?!! Yes, for some reason the “Christmas Creep” has started and we are seeing Christmas decorations up in Hollywood Studios — as well as some Christmas Merch — sitting right next to the Halloween Merch!

Happy Holidays from Sunset Boulevard

In addition to seeing Christmas arrive here, we also found construction, food, character meet and greets, Skyliner, and merchandise updates all around the park! [Read more…]

Character Meals. It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all kinda world. You might think you’ll enjoy dinner at Chef Mickey’s with just your significant other.

Chef Mickey!

After all, you’re kids at heart! But are you really thinking through the reality of it — complete with twirling napkins, blaring music, and loads and loads (and loads!) of kiddos everywhere?

Today, I thought we could break down some of the groups of guests who might want to take special care in deciding which character meal is best for them. Because when it comes to dining with your favorite Disney characters, no one should be left out! [Read more…]

Don’t you love Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Where else can you go for a dose of Old Hollywood glamour, a Star Wars fix, and a Disney Junior fun all in one place?

But in addition to all kinds of movie- and television-inspired fun, the park hosts some great food as well. Today, we’re taking a closer look at our Favorite DHS Restaurants. See if you agree with us!

50s Prime Time Cafe

One of my favorite spots to dine at DHS — or in all of Walt Disney World really — is 50s Prime Time Cafe.

This spot has it all. It’s super-themed, so when you step into the front door one of two things will come to mind:

I am caught in a time warp, and my grandmother is going to bop into the room wearing a poodle skirt any minute.

I’ve succeeded in stepping right into the Dick Van Dyke Show.

One of the 50s Prime Time Cafe Dining Rooms

And truly, the themeing is so utterly awesome here, it’s enough to keep me coming back again and again. But then, the food! It’s just like your mom made! Or grandmother. Or Aunt Gladys. Whatever. My point is, it’s really good and comforting and, well, swell. You know? The bee’s knees. [Read more…]

Because our favorite gal Minnie Mouse will be hosting dinner parties ALL YEAR LONG! That’s right… Minnie’s Seasonal Dine will be offered throughout the year at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: the text below has been updated, as Disney has since released the various seasons and themes that will be celebrated at Minnie’s Seasonal Dine.]

So, what happens after the holiday season? Well, that depends on the time of year… from spring to summer to Halloween and more, Minnie and some of her best Disney pals will be celebrating events and seasons throughout the year. Each season will offer changes in decor, music, menu items, “interactive musical moments,” and new costumes, adding to the festive fun!

First up? A celebration of the movies and all the glitz and glitter of Hollywood will take place from January 4th through March 20th! And it looks like Minnie is already adding to her considerable wardrobe for the next occasion…

We Love Him — But There’s More to Eating at Disney with Kiddos Than Just This Guy!

Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

One of my favorite spots to dine no matter who’s with me is Sanaa. Located in Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the restaurant is known for its exotic menu of African and Indian Fusion. And when I dine here, you know you’re gonna spy some incredible Butter Chicken on the table!

Tandoori Trio with Butter Chicken and Spicy Chicken

While the menu makes it a must-visit spot for guests who enjoy out of the ordinary cuisine, the restaurant is also quiet and rarely crowded — great features for guests who have a small fry in tow.

But the real attraction for toddlers is the view! Forget animatronics on the Jungle Cruise — look out the windows at Sanaa’s sweeping vistas and you’ll see the real deal!

View from Sanaa

Sanaa overlooks Sunset Savanna and spying a zebra, giraffe, or other exotic animal is practically guaranteed!

You Just Might View Some Animals While You Take in Lunch at Sanaa

Here’s another TIP: Keep in mind when you make your advance dining reservation that the animals tend to retire early, and it may get dark on the savanna earlier than you think. Planning lunch or an early dinner at Sanaa during daylight hours is your best bet for seeing the wild side of the restaurant.

Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood and Vine Restaurant at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

So, what sets Hollywood and Vine’s Play ‘n Dine apart? The characters! While practically all other Character Dining options at Disney involve either some subset of the Fab Five or Disney Princesses, Hollywood and Vine’s Play ‘n Dine features the original characters from the Disney Junior lineup! That means that your kiddo will come face to face with friends like Pirate Jake, Doc McStuffins, and Princess Sophia!

Jake the Pirate Just May Try to Join You for Lunch!

Seeing these beloved characters up close and larger than life is [Read more…]